"Today, fatherhood is an heroic calling. The father of olden times was in many ways an idyllic character, living serenely in the bosom of his family, planning and saving for the future. But today he lives in turmoil and toils in vain. If he is industrious, if he is competent, he does not work for... Continue Reading →
Samaritan is not Synonymous with Charity
The parable of the "Good Samaritan" is not a title that has aged well. We know the story well enough, a man is robbed and beaten, ignored by his own people, and only a Samaritan who passes by takes care of him. Now, Samaritan funds and Samaritan charities have become common, a callback to the... Continue Reading →
Intellectual Charity And Returning to Writing
Sincerely I learned about wisdom, and ungrudgingly do I share— her riches I do not hide away;For she is an unfailing treasure; those who gain this treasure win the friendship of God, being commended by the gifts that come from her discipline. Now God grant I speak suitably and value these endowments at their worth:... Continue Reading →
Addressing Parental Fears as Christians
There has been a comment on my earlier post about the things we as Christians should not fear, and I have been meaning to write a reply for some time. What do you say to a mother who lives in constant fear of harm befalling her family? Especially when so many think God is the... Continue Reading →
Rite of Initiation to the Ministry of St. Nicholas
As a Christian parent, how you handle the Santa issue is one of those hot-button issues. Some keep the tradition going, others see participating in the idea of Santa giving gifts as dishonest. My wife and I have encouraged the belief in Santa Claus, and are not ashamed to admit we still believe in the... Continue Reading →
3 Prophetic Warnings From America’s Founding Fathers That Have Gone Unheeded
One of the human race’s favorite games, according to G.K. Chesterton, is called “Cheat the Prophet.” In this age-old game, the players listen to what wise or clever men say, and when they die, they bury them nicely and go an do something different. As it is about that time when we celebrate the birth... Continue Reading →
On Being Where You Are
As St. Patrick's day approaches, and thoughts turn to Ireland (or at least some fabled Emerald Isle that bears the name) I think there is something in the saint's story worth considering when we reflect on our local church: 1) There are many beautiful churches and cathedrals in Ireland. 2) Many modern (built in the 70's... Continue Reading →
Coffee Doesn’t Cure Acedia
The many changes over the past seven months (and more) with this site and my work has a rather simple explanation. After about 7 years of freelancing, I got a regular job. The biggest adjustment for my family has been the time; a commute, 8 hours of work or more, lunch time that doesn't count... Continue Reading →
When the World Falls Apart
When your world is falling apart, what is it that is actually changing so drastically? It cannot be anything that can affect your salvation. It may be a change in your role - or what you thought your role was - in the story of salvation. When Peter was called from his boat, when Paul... Continue Reading →
Dependence and Charity
The stated goal of many charities is to encourage independence of families or the individual. The entire operation, if properly aligned, is to help the person and those they support to no longer become dependent on some other entity - in most cases that means they organization specifically does not want the person to remain... Continue Reading →